Rock Pocket Games is leaning into the bizarre with its latest project, Outsail the Sun, a horde survivor roguelite where you captain a demonic ship crewed by vampirates. The studio has confirmed that the game will launch on both Linux and Windows, offering a direct, native path for players who prefer to avoid reliance on compatibility layers.
The core gameplay loop centers on a high-stakes balance of power. You manually control a massive front-facing cannon, while your crew of vampirates manages the side armaments. This setup blends manual aiming with the automated chaos typical of the bullet-heaven genre, tasking you with navigating treacherous waters while fending off sea monsters.
- Developer: Rock Pocket Games
- Platforms: Linux, Windows
- Genre: Roguelite Horde Survivor
- Availability: Playtest live on Steam
The Constant Threat of Sunrise
The game’s primary pressure point is its namesake: the sun. Because your crew consists of vampires, the sunrise acts as a looming timer rather than just a visual transition. Players must constantly push forward, balancing the hunt for loot and upgrades against the encroaching dawn. This mechanic transforms the typical static arena of a horde survivor game into a mobile, high-pressure experience where you are forced to choose between greed and survival.
Managing Your Vampirate Crew
The roguelite progression is tied directly to your crew management. Captured sailors can be converted into vampires or sacrificed to sustain your current crew and demonic ship. Because different types of gunners and support sailors offer unique synergies, the developer intends for these choices to create distinct builds for every run. As you collect treasure maps, you can chart paths toward rare rewards or dangerous side quests, adding a layer of risk-reward decision-making to the seafaring action.
What to Expect on Linux and Steam Deck
For the Linux community, the developer’s explicit commitment to the platform is the standout detail. Unlike titles that rely on Proton, Outsail the Sun is being built with Linux support as a target, not an afterthought. However, prospective players should keep in mind that official Steam Deck verification is currently unconfirmed. While the controller-friendly nature of the game may make it a strong candidate for the handheld, the team has not yet provided specifics regarding frame-rate targets or hardware optimization.
Rock Pocket Games has not yet shared a release date, but those interested in testing the current state of the build can find an active playtest on the official Steam page.